Thompson Park
A vibrant urban park featuring playgrounds, a lake, a dog park, and unique views into an attached zoo.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Thompson Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant urban park featuring playgrounds, a lake, a dog park, and unique views into an attached zoo.
"Amazing park, always fun to come by. Large park with lots of green areas and lots to do."
🎯 Pirate Ship Playground Alert
This popular spot gets packed! Arrive early or visit on a weekday for a less crowded experience.
🐾 Dog Park Prep
The dog park is great, but be aware of potential maintenance issues in surrounding areas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pirate Ship Playground
Near the dog park
A unique, large playground that sparks imagination, though it can get crowded.
Lake Views & Wildlife
Around the lake
Enjoy a stroll around the lake, with opportunities to spot birds and even zoo animals from the perimeter.
Dog Park Fun
Designated dog area
A spacious area for your furry friends to run and play, though some areas nearby may need maintenance.
Disc Golf Course
Grove Disc Golf Park
A challenging course for disc golf enthusiasts, but be prepared for potential litter.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Park Perks & Potential Pitfalls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Pirate Ship Playground Alert
This popular spot gets packed! Arrive early or visit on a weekday for a less crowded experience.
🐾 Dog Park Prep
The dog park is great, but be aware of potential maintenance issues in surrounding areas.
⛳ Disc Golf Caution
If disc golfing, be prepared for potential litter and disorganization on the course.
📸 Family Photo Ops
Thompson Park is a scenic spot for family photos, especially with its diverse backdrops.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Pirate Ship Playground Alert
This popular spot gets packed! Arrive early or visit on a weekday for a less crowded experience.
🐾 Dog Park Prep
The dog park is great, but be aware of potential maintenance issues in surrounding areas.
⛳ Disc Golf Caution
If disc golfing, be prepared for potential litter and disorganization on the course.
📸 Family Photo Ops
Thompson Park is a scenic spot for family photos, especially with its diverse backdrops.
🎣 Fishing Fun
Anglers can enjoy fishing here, with mentions of bass fishing in local videos. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Thompson Park is a large, well-maintained green space with a lot to offer, including great playgrounds, a lake, and a dog park. Visitors appreciate the ample shade, clean facilities, and the unique opportunity to see zoo animals from the park's perimeter. However, some areas, particularly the disc golf course, have received criticism for litter and disorganization, and there have been isolated reports of maintenance issues with equipment.
"Amazing park, always fun to come by. Large park with lots of green areas and lots to do. Lots of trees and shade and the grass is very green! It's also very clean and well maintained. Picnic tables and paved trails all throughout the park. There's a couple of playgrounds, including a really neat pirate ship themed one, but that one is usually packed. There's a pretty large dog park in it too. There's a lake with a walking trail and benches around it. And of course, there's the zoo attached! You can see into the zoo from the outside at different parts of the park. I was able to see a fox and a camel from outside the zoo. Very comfortable place. Overall, it's a great park that me and my kids!"
Terrin Dugan
"I love the park, different play areas for kids depending on age and mobility. However, today I was pushing a kid on a swing and decided to swing next to them. Not even that high and the swing broke and I landed on tailbone and have bruising on hands. The area close to the dog park needs to be maintained. It is very unsafe for kids."
Rebbeca
"This park was a great find on our travels it was a huge has so much to do in the area from the zoo to the amusement park within its location. This park has lots of walkways and picnic tables even a neat private spot behind the zoo where you can see some of the animals in the zoo! Very worth visiting!"
Tiffani Skye
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Directions to Thompson Park can vary depending on your starting location. Many visitors use GPS or mapping apps. Some social media posts mention specific locations within the park, like the dog park or the disc golf course, which can help guide you.
Yes, Thompson Park generally offers free parking. Some Instagram reels highlight free parking as a perk.
Information on public transport accessibility can be limited in online discussions. It's best to check local transit schedules for routes serving the park's vicinity.
Thompson Park has multiple access points. Depending on what you plan to do, you might aim for an entrance closer to the playgrounds, dog park, or disc golf course.
While some areas have paved trails, the terrain can vary. Instagram reels mention inclusive playground equipment for wheelchair users in some Thompson Park locations, suggesting an effort towards accessibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Thompson Park is generally free to enter, making it an accessible destination for everyone.
Park hours can vary, but it's typically open from dawn until dusk. Specific event hours, like the Glow-A-Ween dance party, are advertised separately.
No, general admission to Thompson Park does not require booking tickets. However, for special events, registration might be necessary.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, typical park rules apply. Be mindful of bringing in glass containers, especially near the disc golf course, as it has been an issue.
The zoo is attached, and while you can see some animals from the park, full zoo access likely requires separate admission.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visitors enjoy the playgrounds (especially the pirate ship!), walking trails around the lake, the dog park, and disc golf. You can also picnic and enjoy the green spaces.
Yes, Thompson Park features separate play structures for toddlers and older children, ensuring fun for various ages. 
Absolutely! Thompson Park has a dedicated and fairly large dog park, making it a great spot for pet owners.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity at Thompson Park, with mentions of bass fishing. +1
Reviews for the disc golf course are mixed. Some find it challenging, while others report issues with trash and glass.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Some Thompson Park locations have cafes, and picnic areas with tables are available for visitors to bring their own food.
Yes, Thompson Park is an excellent spot for picnics, with numerous picnic tables available throughout the park.
Depending on the specific Thompson Park location, you'll likely find various dining options in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Park regulations regarding alcohol can vary. It's advisable to check local ordinances or park signage for specific rules.
Typically, larger parks like Thompson Park have water fountains, especially near playgrounds and picnic areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The pirate ship playground, the lake, and the general green spaces offer great photo opportunities. The zoo animals visible from the park can also make for unique shots.
Yes, Thompson Park is a popular location for family photoshoots due to its scenic beauty and diverse backdrops.
Drone usage is often restricted in public parks. It's best to check the specific park's regulations or local aviation rules before flying a drone.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. Weekday mornings provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
The lake and surrounding greenery attract various bird species, making it a good spot for nature photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't forget to explore the lake area for a peaceful walk and keep an eye out for animals visible from the zoo! 🐾 Dog Owners
🌳 Nature Lovers & Birdwatchers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Thompson Park's Playgrounds
Beyond the main play areas, you'll find swings, climbing elements, and open green spaces perfect for running around. Some locations also boast inclusive equipment, such as swings and roundabouts designed for wheelchair users, highlighting a commitment to accessibility.
It's worth noting that while the playgrounds are generally well-loved, one reviewer did experience a safety concern with a broken swing, underscoring the importance of checking equipment before use. The Thompson Park Lake and Wildlife
Adding to the park's unique appeal, parts of Thompson Park offer glimpses into an attached zoo. From specific vantage points around the park, you can sometimes spot animals like foxes and camels without needing to enter the zoo itself.
Disc Golf at Thompson Park: A Mixed Bag
However, the disc golf experience at Thompson Park has also faced criticism. Several reviews mention issues with disorganization and a significant amount of trash and glass scattered across the course.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit